4 Places to Find Halloween Costumes in Shenzhen

By That's PRD, October 13, 2017

This year, don't settle for a last-minute cat, robber or toga 'costume.' Instead, show your holiday spirit in style by purchasing a getup from one of the following options.

And if you're having trouble getting into a spooky state of mind, may we suggest some choice creepy Chinese 'tales from the crypt'?

1. Sungang Stationery, Toys and Gifts Wholesale Market

By far the most comprehensive Halloween option in town, this market's got not only costumes but also props and decorations. The shops aren’t shy about their holiday pride: besides rubbery ghouls and plastic pumpkins, there are also red lanterns and other Chinese New Year ornaments on display, just in case you're already thinking ahead.

Nearest metro: Line 9, Yuanling

Open daily, 9am-7pm; see listing for Sungang Stationery, Toys, and Gifts Wholesale Market.

2. International supermarkets

It may be mostly kids stuff (see above), but global chains like Walmart, IKEA, Carrefour, and Jusco offer basic Halloween costumes and accessories. Shiny wizard capes and hats, polka-dot fairy wings, cartoon animal masks — what’s not to love? We won’t judge if you pick up something for yourself as well.

3. Hongli Lu

Going for a faux-fancy vibe this year? This line of shops in Luohu is worth a visit. For most of the year, they cater to performers by stocking kids’ dance outfits, bejeweled dresses and a small selection of menswear options. It’s kind of like shopping for prom, but slightly tackier and with the odd animal costume thrown in. On the plus side, many outfits can be rented out.

Nearest metro: Line 3, Hongling

Open daily; Hongli Lu, by Hongling Zhonglu (Northeast side), Luohu District 罗湖区红荔路和红岭中路交叉口东北边

4. Taobao

For those with a specific look in mind, Taobao may be the answer. You'll need the following key phrases: '万圣节儿童服装' (wanshengjie ertong fuzhuang) for children's Halloween costumes and '万圣节服装' (wanshengjie fuzhuang) for general holiday costumes. Alternatively, visit Baopals, a site that translates Taobao products and search results into English.

[Images via Bailey Hu, Taobao]